PM Narendra Modi attends all-party meet, lends ear to Opposition leaders

NEW DELHI: In a conciliatory gesture on the eve of the Budget session, PM Narendra Modi reached out to the Opposition at an all-party meeting for smooth functioning of the Parliament and to achieve consensus on the six Ordinances, including Land Acquisition and Insurance FDI.

At a meeting that was also attended by Cabinet ministers and senior MPs, the Prime Minister said, “The country looks at the Budget session with hopes and aspirations. It is collective responsibility of all parties to ensure it runs smoothly. I assure all parties that issues raised by them will be taken up for discussion in Parliament.”

The meeting was convened by Parliamentary Affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu and the PM surprised everyone by dropping in. He listened to reservations expressed by leaders of Opposition parties on several issues. The government’s keenness to buy peace with the Opposition to pass key legislations was evident.

After the stormy winter session, government wanted the Budget session to proceed smoothly. The session starting on Monday will continue till May 8, and see the presentation of the first full budget by Modi government.